Which Vans Have The Best Payload Capacity?

December 13th, 2024

Whether you’re a window cleaner needing to transport a 1000L tank, or you just need to make sure you can get materials and tools to site – a van with good payload capacity is important.

Choosing a van with enough room to carry everything you need to get the job done is one thing, it needs to be capable of taking the weight of the load too. In this article, we’ll take you through how payload is worked out, and which vans have the best payload capacity – so, you can get on with the job.

What is Payload Capacity?

Payload Capacity refers to the maximum weight your vehicle can safely carry; factoring in goods, passengers and equipment. This means it is an important factor to consider when you’re choosing a van for your business.

You can work out payload capacity by taking the kerb weight (how much your van weighs without any cargo or passengers) away from the Gross Vehicle Weight (the weight of the vehicle plus the maximum weight it is able to carry). You can also find payload capacity in the vehicle brochure, or ask your van leasing expert.

Don’t ignore the payload limits of your vehicle, or you risk damaging the vehicle, causing poor performance, or even making the vehicle unsafe and more likely to become involved in accidents.

Best Payload Capacity: Top 5

We’ve collected info on the 5 best large vans for payload capacity that can be driven on a regular UK driving licence. If you’re looking to carry really heavy loads, you’ll need an HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) licence, allowing you to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.

5 – Mercedes Sprinter

Although there are plenty of variants of Sprinter than could offer of nearly 2,500kg – these all require a Heavy Goods licence. The best payload offered by Mercedes for a regular driving licence comes in the form of the 315 L2H1 RWD Pro. With 1,200kg payload capacity, this isn’t particularly impressive – however you’ll benefit from excellent in-built safety features and the ever-durable Mercedes build.

4- Nissan Interstar

Formerly called the NV400, Nissan’s large van can carry up to 1,447kg in the still-spacious L2H2 variant. At a good price point, and still offering a good amount of specification, this van is a great option if you’re looking for a cost-efficient option for transporting a heavy goods payload that takes up space.

3 – Vauxhall Movano/Citroen Relay/Peugeot Boxer

At 1,500kg the smallest versions of the Stellantis range of large vans (L2H1) offer the biggest payload capacity for the range. Although they don’t match the capability of some of the other large vans on the market, these Stellantis vans are great vehicles, offering a more than a decent payload for the size of the vehicle and level of spec onboard.

2. Fiat Ducato

Just beating the other Stellantis range, the Fiat Ducato 35 L2H1 offers a max payload of 1,550kg. If you decide to choose the popular automatic version which is available on the L2H2 & L2H3 versions of the Ducato however, you’ll see that payload reduced down to 1,415kg and 1,365kg respectively.

1. Renault Master

Landing in the top spot with a max payload of 1,551kg, the L1H2 Renault Master surpasses it’s rivals in terms of payload capability. (Although this number does drop below the 1,500kg mark if you’re looking for a higher spec or a longer load space). This reliable large van from Renault has just been upgraded to a slick new look and remains a firm favourite among tradespeople looking to lease a workhorse to get the job done.

If you’re interested in leasing and looking for the right van for your business, just get in touch. You can chat through your requirements with one of our Van Experts and they will source the perfect van for the job! Just Contact Us or call 0117 962 5314